It’s the Friday before Labor Day weekend, the holiday that signals the start of the school year, the summer’s slow demise into fall and, more optimistically, the near arrival of goodies like apple cider and pumpkin-spice everything. It’s also a work holiday that means — perhaps most importantly — I get a break from teaching … Continue reading →

You know, working from home as a food, etc. journalist can be a conflict of interest. In theory, I have the flexibility to take my time mid-morning at the Wednesday farmers market, perusing, chatting, “researching,” if you will. I have conducted interviews for stories while getting my groceries, but I’ve also gotten carried away and … Continue reading →

Today was the last day for my ’round-the-corner farmers market in Mount Vernon, the last time I get to buy brussel sprouts and butternut squash from my favorite farmer, Jesús. But it’s also the day before Thanksgiving, the day for thanking God for the bounty before us — and boy did I come home with … Continue reading →

I was having a rough morning at the farmers market today. I had already stopped by in a rush just after it opened at 8 a.m. to have my pick of the seconds bin apples at Twin Springs Fruit Farm‘s stand. While in line, I glanced into my wallet to find a severe lack of … Continue reading →